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Massachusetts Unemployment Hits 4.8% Amid Job Market Struggles

1/24/2026

49 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In December 2025, the Massachusetts unemployment rate rose to 4.8% from 4.1% a year earlier.
Local employers added 1,300 jobs in December.
Massachusetts has lost 4,500 jobs over the past two years.
Employment increased by 2,800 as 29,600 people entered the job market in December.
The outlook for 2026 suggests continued labor-market challenges.

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Story summary

In December 2025, the Massachusetts unemployment rate rose to 4.8% from 4.1% a year earlier.
Local employers added 1,300 jobs in December.
Massachusetts has lost 4,500 jobs over the past two years.
Employment increased by 2,800 as 29,600 people entered the job market in December.
The outlook for 2026 suggests continued labor-market challenges.